It normally takes some major hardware upgrades to deliver a 50 horsepower boost, but the Ford Ranger Raptor will get that big jump in performance with something as simple as a software upgrade, the automaker says. And the Bronco Raptor will get a nearly equal increase, according to Ford. Here’s how.
The 2023 Ford Bronco Raptor does some rock crawling.
For those looking for plenty of off-road muscle, the Bronco and Ranger Raptor packages already deliver. But now, owners will be able to get a major increase in performance without having to modify their hardware.
The automaker announced Thursday that the two Raptor models will be able to get as much as a 25% increase in torque and a 10% jump in horsepower through new powertrain calibrations.
The software upgrade will cost $825, though Ford also announced a way buyers could cut that price tage by 20%.
What’s new
Ford’s Raptor models already deliver a mix of muscle and off-road grit. Now, the automaker’s aftermarket sales unit, Ford Performance Parts, is offering owners of both the Bronco and Ranger Raptor models equipped with 3.0-liter EcoBoost engines the opportunity to take power to the next level.
- 2024 Ranger Raptor models can boost torque from 430 to 536 lb.-ft., while horsepower increases from 405 to 455;
- 2023 and 2024 Bronco Raptor models get a torque boost from 440 to 536 lb.-ft. and horsepower climbs from 418 to 455.
The automaker has not said what impact the modifications will have on fuel economy. This story will be updated when we have that information.
How it works
Like all modern vehicles, both Ranger Raptor and Bronco Raptor use complicated software algorithms to control their powertrain operations. Ford engineers have come up with modified programs to boost the performance of the 3.0-liter EcoBoost engines shared by the two models.
The upgrades can be purchased online – but the installation must be done at Ford dealer service departments.
The good news is that the revised calibrations continue to be covered by the Ford Performance Parts’ 3-year/36,000-mile warranty.
More Ford News
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- Ford Adds New Off-Roadeo School Location
- Ford Shows Off Two Off-Road EVs
What it costs
Purchased online, the new software carries an MSRP of $825. But if you’ve got Ford Performance Points from previous factory upgrades you could apply them for a discount.
Owners also can get a 20% discount if they sign up for the Raptor Rally Ford has scheduled at its Performance Racing School in Fairfield, Utah, on September 21,
The one-day event costs $500 and includes a variety of off-road driving experiences, including workshops, trail drives and hot laps, as well as meals. Vehicle owners also will be allowed to bring along a guest.
Those interested in the September event can register at http://www.fordraptorrally.com
To purchase the upgraded engine calibrations, meanwhile, go to performanceparts.ford.com.
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